Solar Panel Cost Guide in Bystrom, CA (2023 Update)

  • Bystrom Solar Installation Cost: $5,714
  • 25-Year Savings: $19,028
  • Payback Period: 5.8 Years

See cost of a solar system near you:

By EcoWatch Local Advisors

Data Analysis: James Savino

Ranking Methodology: Karsten Neumeister

Updated May 04, 2023

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We work with a panel of solar experts to create unbiased reviews that empower you to make the right choice for your home. No other site has covered renewables as long as us, which means we have more data and insider information than other sites. Our rankings are never affected by revenue or partnerships.

Average Cost of Solar Panels in Bystrom

We go over average solar pricing in Bystrom.

Currently, the national average cost of solar panels is $2.66 per watt. However, in Bystrom, the average cost of a solar system is 2.73 per watt. Because a 3.0-kW system is needed to cover the energy consumption of a typical home in Bystrom, the average price of going solar will be about $5,714 after claiming the federal solar tax credit of 30%.

These figures are just averages, and your own solar costs will look different based on your specific situation and what company you go with. Despite the large initial cost, the average Bystrom homeowner can save about $31,000 on their energy bills over 20 years, which is one of the perks of solar.

You can click the button below to get connected with a pre-vetted solar company in Bystrom for a quote for your home.

Solar savings over time in Bystrom

Year Return on Investment
1 years $-4,724
3 years $-2,745
5 years $-766
7 years $1,214
9 years $3,193
11 years $5,172
13 years $7,152
15 years $9,131
17 years $11,110
19 years $13,090
21 years $15,069
23 years $17,049
25 years $19,028

Top Solar Installers in Bystrom

Although it's possible to install solar panels by yourself, it involves extra time and expertise. That's one of the reasons most people choose to go with a solar panel installer. A solar company can also help save you money in the long run by offering warranties, repairs and system component replacements.

You can get a free quote from a local solar installer on how much your investment in solar could cost for your home. Here are some near you:

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

See all of the solar companies in Bystrom

Factors that Affect Solar Panel Costs in Bystrom

There are many factors that can play into your solar panel installation cost, such as the size of your system, the equipment you choose, your financing options and the specific company that performs the installation.

Solar Equipment

One of the most significant factors to consider when it comes to the cost of going solar is the size of the solar system, which is measured in kilowatts (kW). The more electricity your household consumes, the larger your system will likely need to be. You can expect to spend around $2,730 per kilowatt in Bystrom. Some solar panel brands — like Maxeon from SunPower — cost more upfront but also tend to offer better efficiency. In a city like Bystrom, where sunlight is abundant, efficiency can quickly pay off. Also, if you have a small roof or limited space for your panels, higher efficiency options will be more impactful. Additional equipment like electric vehicle chargers and solar batteries will also increase the cost.

Solar Financing Terms

Solar panels can save you money on power bills over many years, but they can also be a big investment. That's why many Bystrom homeowners opt to finance their solar panel systems to make paying for solar more affordable. You'll have to consider the long-term cost of financing options, including the amount of interest you'll pay over the length of the loan. If you can only get a high-interest loan, then your total can be hundreds or even thousands of dollars above the equipment and labor cost. Making a larger down payment or finding a solar loan with a low APR could reduce your costs significantly.

Solar Panel Installation Company

The solar installer you hire to handle your switch to clean energy can have an effect on your total costs. There are about 3 solar panel companies in Bystrom, and each can charge varying amounts for labor and equipment. Additionally, some companies in Bystrom are more knowledgeable about local solar incentives and can help you learn about additional rebates or tax exemptions. However, they may charge more for that service. Even if they cost more upfront, they could help you save more money in the long run.

Solar Panel Cost Data by System Size

System size Cost per system watt Solar system cost 25-Year savings Payback period
6 kW $2.84 $11,925 $37,758 6.0 years
8 kW $2.78 $15,594 $50,649 5.9 years
10 kW $2.73 $19,110 $63,694 5.8 years
12 kW $2.68 $22,473 $76,891 5.7 years
14 kW $2.62 $25,684 $90,242 5.5 years
16 kW $2.57 $28,741 $103,745 5.4 years
18 kW $2.51 $31,646 $117,401 5.3 years
20 kW $2.46 $34,398 $131,210 5.2 years

How to Save on Solar Panels

The solar company you go with will be a major factor in determining not only your overall costs, but also the types of solar panel brands, warranties, and other equipment you can get. When choosing a solar company, there are several important things you should keep in mind, such as:

  • Warranty: A high-quality company stands out from other companies by offering the gold standard warranty — a 25-year, all-inclusive warranty covering parts, labor and performance.
  • Installation Process: Make sure you're on the same page with the installer in regard to how the installation process will go and what needs to be done before your solar panels are installed, such as updating or replacing your electrical system or roof.
  • Solar Panel Brands: Different companies will carry different brands and kinds of panels. If you prefer a specific brand, make sure the solar installer you're considering has it.
  • Contract: Read the contract terms closely to make sure you understand the total cost, completion timeline incentives and warranties.

Best National Provider

SunPower

★★★★★
5.0

  • Most efficient panels on the market
  • National coverage
  • Cradle to Cradle sustainability certification
  • Great warranty coverage
  • Expensive
  • Customer service varies by local dealer

Best Regional Coverage

Momentum Solar

★★★★★
4.5

  • Great warranty coverage
  • Representatives are experts on local policies
  • Concierge service ensures steady communication
  • Slightly limited service offerings

Best Warranty Coverage

Sunpro Solar

★★★★★
4.0

  • Industry-leading warranty coverage
  • Expansive service area
  • Some reported communication issues
  • No leases or PPAs

EcoWatch's Bystrom, CA Solar Cost FAQs

How much does it cost to install solar panels in Bystrom?

The average cost of solar panels in Bystrom is about $13,650 for a 5-kW system and $27,300 for a 10-kW system before the ITC, but the actual cost will depend on certain factors such as the model of solar panels you want, what size system you need and how much energy you use.

Should I lease or buy solar panels in Bystrom?

Leasing solar panels can be an appealing choice, as it usually comes with low or $0 upfront payments. The drawback is that you won't be able to save as much. If you lease, you don't own the system, so you can't claim any tax rebates and credits and your home value won't increase. Buying solar panels is a better way to go if you want to maximize your savings.

Can solar panels completely eradicate my electricity bills?

It is possible to eradicate your electricity bills with solar panels, but for most homeowners in Bystrom, that will require at least a 10-kW system. Not all homes will have roofs that can accommodate that size system, so you'll want to check with a local solar installer to see how many panels can fit on your roof.

How often do you have to replace solar panels?

Although the average lifespan of solar panels is 25 to 30 years, that doesn't mean they should be disposed of at that time. What this means is how much energy they produce will have decreased significantly after that point. You can opt to replace them after having them for that long or you can continue to use them at a lower efficiency.

Our goal is to reach as many people as we can with sensible solutions like solar energy. Our team of full-time local researchers collects solar price and installation data for every city in America then compiles it to create these digestible city guides. If you want to read our solar expert's opinion on the top solar companies featured here, follow this link.

Company research was conducted by Melissa Smith and Karsten Neumeister. Local data analysis was conducted by James Savino. See something we missed or could do better? Email the editor.

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